Freescale microcontroller

Freescale's Kinetis KL02 microcontroller is a chip that measures just 1.9mm by 2.0mm -- much smaller than a key on a computer keyboard. Microcontrollers such as this one will bring computing technology to many devices that previously used mechanical controls or dumber electronics. For more details, see CNET's stories on the marriage of computing technology and cars.

Smart-car electronics

A system from IBM and NXP Semiconductors gathers car events like use of fog lights and windshield wipers then beams it to city planners who can find trouble spots. It also alerts city residents about nearby problems over smartphones. For more details, see CNET's stories on the marriage of computing technology and cars.